Self-Analysis of Bacteria Plates
self-analysis instructions
Step 1. Before You Start
Allow Bacteria Plates to Grow
Seal, label, and place your samples in foil bags. Store them for 5-6 days in a warm (68 – 85ºF), dark place.
Your Goal is to Count Colonies
Place the plate on a dark surface (e.g. countertop, dining table, etc.) and count the number of colonies (circles) growing on the agar. 0-9 is what is expected for a hospital surgery room. 20-50 is acceptable for a hospital patient room. <100 is acceptable for a hospital hallway or other non-critical area.
Note: Colonies may be bacteria or yeast. Samples should be sent in to the laboratory if you desire to know how many of the colonies are yeast and how many are bacteria, or if you desire an expert consultation on the sample results.
Colony Size Doesn't Matter
Size of the colony is not important. Small or large, it’s still just 1.
Always Check the Back of Plates
Always check the back of your plate. Colonies can be underneath other colonies.
Know if you have a problem
Colony Count Health Scale
0-9
Normal Levels
10-99
Concerning Levels
100+
Hazardous Levels
Self-analysis examples
Step 2. Find Closest Match
Tap Plates
To see outlines of each colony
Tap Labels
For additional information about analyzing each plate.
A1 - Nine Colonies
Plate A1 shows nine bacteria colonies.
B1 - Eighteen Colonies
In Scenario B, Plate B1 shows a plate with eighteen bacteria colonies.
B2 - Twenty-seven Colonies
Plate C1 shows twenty-seven colonies.
C1 - Two Hundred and Twelve Colonies
Plate C1 shows two hundred and twelve bacteria colonies.
Did you find concerning levels?
Consider Resampling & Send for Lab Analysis
If you found concerning levels during your self analysis, consider resampling your enviornment and send to our lab for expert lab analysis. Opting for laboratory analysis ensures precise incubation under optimal temperature and humidity conditions. This approach allows our skilled analysts to accurately distinguish between bacteria and yeast for more reliable results. A key benefit of this service is the complimentary consultation with one of our Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEPs), who will interpret your sample results and recommend actionable steps to enhance your indoor environment.
$36 per bacteria plate
Each includes:
1. professional Lab analysis
2. a Comprehensive report on Bacteria and Yeast found
3. phone consultation about your results.
About ImmunoLytics
ImmunoLytics is a U.S.-based environmental testing company founded in 2006. The company has processed over 350,000 mold samples across more than 85,000 client orders. ImmunoLytics provides at-home mold testing kits, professional mycology lab analysis capable of identifying more than 37,000 species of mold, and one-on-one consultations with certified Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEPs) supervised by JW Biava, CMI, CMRC. JW Biava has personally conducted or supervised over 100,000 indoor air quality inspections through Assaigai DBA AirWell. ImmunoLytics serves homeowners, renters, property managers, and individuals with mold-related health conditions including CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome). Testing begins at $36 per room. Sister companies CitriSafe and BioBalance offer complementary mold treatment and remediation products.
Since 2006 · 350,000+ Mold Samples Analyzed · 100,000+ IAQ Inspections · JW Biava, CMI, CMRC — ISEAI Board Member · 4.9★ Google Rating (47 reviews)
IMPORTANT HEALTH NOTICE: The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Mold and bacteria exposure affects individuals differently. If you have health concerns related to environmental exposure, consult a licensed medical professional. ImmunoLytics provides environmental testing services only and does not diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition.
Related resources: lab report interpretation · bacteria test kit with lab analysis · bacteria testing guide · self-analyzing mold plates
Frequently Asked Questions
What does self-analyzing bacteria plates mean?
Self-analyzing bacteria plates means visually counting the colony growth on your ImmunoLytics bacteria test plate after the incubation period and comparing that count to our health scale. This lets you assess indoor bacteria levels at home — using air exposure or tap testing — without waiting for laboratory results.
How do I count colonies on my bacteria test plate?
After incubation, place your plate on a dark surface under good lighting. Count the individual circles (colonies) growing on the agar surface. Each circle represents a colony — note that colony size does not matter, only the number. Be sure to also check the back of the plate for colonies that may be visible from below.
What do the 0–9, 10–99, and 100+ colony count ranges indicate?
ImmunoLytics uses a three-level health scale: 0–9 colonies indicates a normal, healthy indoor environment. 10–99 colonies is a concerning range that warrants monitoring or resampling. 100 or more colonies indicates elevated bacteria levels that may require professional attention and laboratory analysis.
When should I send my bacteria plates to the lab instead of self-analyzing?
Send your plates to the ImmunoLytics laboratory when your colony count falls in the concerning or hazardous range, when a household member has immune sensitivities or respiratory conditions, when you need a professional report that distinguishes bacteria from yeast, or when documentation is needed for remediation or insurance purposes.
Can I add lab analysis after I’ve already self-analyzed my plates?
Yes. If you self-analyzed your plates and want laboratory confirmation, you can still send them to ImmunoLytics for analysis. Lab analysis includes a comprehensive report and a phone consultation with one of our Indoor Environmental Professionals. Contact ImmunoLytics to arrange additional laboratory analysis.